Foreigners and StrangersSample

Paul had religious and social currency. He had ethnic privilege – he was a Jew as well as a Roman citizen. But Paul was looked down upon; some considered him inferior to the ‘super-apostles’. He had no letters of recommendation (2 Cor 3:1-2) and his public speaking and presence were not impressive (2 Cor 10:10). 

Paul shows that he is in fact deserving of the Corinthians’ respect because he has a family heritage as a Hebrew and status as a Pharisee. He too could trace his lineage back to Abraham (2 Cor 11:16-29).

He does this, not to boast, but to get the Corinthians to take him seriously. Though he is just as deserving, he does not use his ethnic privileges to his own advantage, but rather leans into his weaknesses and preaches to them free of charge. 

What privileges has God given you? How can they be used to help others take the gospel seriously? When may they need to be laid down for ministry to others?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for the various privileges you have given me. Please help me to hold onto them loosely so that they can be used or laid down for the sake of God’s kingdom. Amen.